You have plans for the new year, but don’t want to lose a pound? Fear not, the Mediterranean diet has you covered. Featuring a diet rich in grains, nuts, and olive oil, as well as plenty of fish, veggies, and fruits, this health regime can help you keep off the pounds while sticking to your preferred lifestyle.
Whether you’re looking to lose a few pounds or need a way to slim down for a special occasion, the Mediterranean diet is a great choice. And what’s better is that it’s quite flexible which means you can adapt it to fit any lifestyle.
Here are the top 10 foods models eat to lose weight fast.
Whole Grain Bread
If there’s one thing the Mediterranean diet is renowned for it’s the abundance of whole grain food which makes up a significant portion of the dishes. Typically, the diet consists of whole grain pasta, rice, or bread. Furthermore, most of these foods are baked rather than fried, keeping your waistline slim in the process.
This is important as many people who follow the regime struggle with weight gain due to the increased demand for junk food as a result of the dietary restrictions. Although the restriction of food groups might sound harsh, the reality is that you’ll need a healthier alternative for most foods which are off-limits. Baking vs. frying also reduces the amount of oil splattered around which means less calories consumed.
Whole grain food is incredibly versatile as well. Depending on the type of diet plan you follow, you can make simple swaps to suit your needs. For instance, if you’re aiming for a vegan diet then you’ll need to exclude eggs, dairy, and meat from your food intake. You can still incorporate beans, lentils, and whole grain pasta in your diet plan if you don’t eat those three categories of food commonly found in many Mediterranean diet recipes.
Chicken
Birds have always been a way of life in Greece, and it shows in their cuisine. In fact, apart from seafood, chicken is the most popular source of protein in the country. This diet plan does include some poultry however, you should eat the leaner cuts of meat as they contain fewer calories and are lower in fat. Typically, the Greeks opt for the breast meat over the thigh as they see it as an easier option for those looking to shed a few pounds.
Chicken is another food that’s incredibly versatile. While some people might be scared to try it due to its fat content, the protein-rich food is ideal for anyone. It’s low in carbohydrates and high in fiber that makes it a perfect alternative for those looking to shed a few pounds.
Tuna Fish
Fish is another great source of protein and provides an excellent alternative for those seeking to avoid meat. The best thing about tuna fish is that you can prepare it in a number of ways, from raw fish to a creamy sauce. This versatile food can be incorporated into most dietary plans as long as you’re eating healthy fats and carbohydrates.
What makes tuna fish even more appealing is that it’s among the few foods that contain significant amounts of Vitamin B12. This vitamin is known for enhancing the human nervous system and stimulating the production of red blood cells. In other words, this food promotes healthy brain function and excellent bone health.
Fried Fish
While many people think that fish is meant to be eaten rare, it would be a mistake to do so. Instead, the best way to eat fish is by frying it. Not only does the process make the food more appetizing, but it also imparts a new flavor that some might find irresistible. Of course, there are healthier and more eco-friendly ways of eating fish, but the reality is that most people still opt for the traditional method.
Halibut
This fish is often associated with cold weather and snow-covered landscapes, but it can actually be found year-round. It has a firm texture that makes it ideal for grilling or baking. So, the next time you see halibut, don’t be scared to indulge.
Sardines
If you’re looking to shed a few pounds then sardines might be the best option for you. These small fish are high in protein and low in fat. As a result, they have the potential to help you with your weight loss goals. What makes sardines even more appealing is the multitude of health advantages they offer. Pre-packed in oil, these fish are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids which are known to reduce bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol. Furthermore, due to their anti-inflammatory effects, sardines have the potential to ease the pains of arthritis and other rheumatic diseases.
There are several varieties of sardines, from the yellow ones to the black ones. If you want to try this delicious food then shop around as some shops offer a discount if you buy in bulk. Not only will this help you save money, but it will also make it easier for you to fit in more meals during the week.
Pistachios
These tiny nuts from the pistachio tree offer a wealth of nutrients and are among the few foods that contain significant amounts of vitamin E. The oil which comes from pistachios is known for its ability to reduce cholesterol and triglycerides as well as improve the human immune system. All of these benefits make pistachios an ideal addition to your diet.
White Chocolate
If you’re looking to shed a few pounds then why not indulge in some white chocolate? The sweet treat is high in fiber and low in fat which makes it an excellent option for those seeking to reduce their waistline. White chocolate is also a source of magnesium which is known for relaxing the muscles in the body and aiding the human nervous system. So, the next time you crave some chocolate, indulge in some white chocolate instead.
Grapefruit
Grapefruit is one of the most popular fruits in the world and many people believe it’s rich in antioxidants. These fruit’s compounds are known to neutralize free radicals in the body, protecting us from the damage caused by toxins and other substances. The best way to enjoy grapefruit is simply by eating it. Cut it into segments and pop them into your mouth, allowing the juices to spread across your tongue. Although grapefruit is low in calories, it’s high in vitamin C and citric acid which contribute to its healthy appearance. These compounds nourish the skin and aid in the prevention of tooth decay. So, if you want to stay healthy, eat your grapefruit.
Dark Chocolate
While most people opt for milk chocolate as it’s a healthier alternative, dark chocolate has several advantages. The most prominent one is that it has high amounts of antioxidants which act as small fighters in the body, battling and defending your DNA from damage. Antioxidants also help prevent heart disease and stroke by inhibiting the aggregation of LDL cholesterol in blood vessels. Dark chocolate is also a source of magnesium and iron which contribute to its overall nutritional value. So, the next time you crave chocolate, indulge in some dark chocolate instead as it’s known to be one of the healthiest sweet treats around.
The above suggestions for tasty foods models eat to lose weight fast shouldn’t be taken out of context. Rather, they should be treated as an outline of simple, practical dietary advice that you can follow. If you’re looking for a quick fix then these foods might be the answer you’re looking for, as they’re all nutrient-dense and have the potential to contribute to your health and fitness goals.